The Spicy Next-gen Skoda Octavia RS Could Reach Indian Shores Next Year

• The Octavia RS is powered by a 2.0-litre TSI making 245PS/370Nm, with the option of a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG gearbox overseas.

• Other enhancements include a sport differential, lower ride height, larger brakes and Dynamic Chassis Control .

• Exterior enhancements include aggressive bumpers, larger alloy wheels, and  blacked out accents.

• Cabin receives sports seats, an RS-themed digital driver’s display and infotainment system as well as a three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel.

• Will most likely carry a premium over its predecessor that retailed from Rs 35.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

While we await the fourth-gen Skoda Octavia’s launch on June 10, Zac Hollis, Director of Sales, Service and Marketing at Skoda Auto India, has hinted that its performance-focused RS trim is under consideration for India. Unveiled in markets abroad back in July 2020, the RS trim makes the new Octavia a mean-looking  performance sedan the ‘RS’ way.

Speaking with Zac Hollis, he said, “I would love to bring as many as I can at a good price. Certainly it’s something we’re considering. But it won’t happen this year. As a limited edition FBU it is something we’re considering for the future.”

In markets abroad, the main talking point of the Octy RS is under the hood. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre TSI petrol mill, it makes 245PS of  grunt and 370Nm of twist, the same as its predecessor, the RS245. It can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG gearbox and go from 0-100kmph in 6.7 seconds with a top speed of 250kmph. There’s also a 1.4-litre TSI petrol-hybrid -- a first for the Octavia -- and a 200PS 2.0-litre TDI on offer but the India-spec model will most likely stick with the petrol motor.

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In true RS fashion, the new Octavia RS gets other performance trickery such as its ride height lowered by 15mm, larger brakes, a sport differential, as well as Dynamic Chassis Control. This system adapts various parameters of the car such as the suspension, damping, and steering characteristics or the operation of the 7-speed DSG gearbox depending on the mode selected.

The spicier Octavia also looks the part with bolder bumpers, larger alloy wheels with low-profile tyres and blacked out elements all over. Inside, you’re treated to sports seats with an Alcantara finish, a three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel, and an RS-themed Skoda virtual cockpit and touchscreen infotainment.

Since Zac Hollis ruled out a launch this year, we expect the more potent Octavia RS to reach Indian shores by 2022. It is likely to get a premium over its predecessor that retailed at Rs 35.99 lakh (ex-showroom).